Chinakhov's Breakout Season: Dynasty Value Soars for 2024-25 Draft

This briefing analyzes the developing situation with Yegor Chinakhov of the Columbus Blue Jackets, based on a report published on 2026-08-03T12:50:00.000Z. Source

What Changed

Yegor Chinakhov experienced a significant breakout season in 2023-24, setting career highs in goals, assists, and total points. He played in 53 games, recording 16 goals and 29 points, averaging 15:10 of ice time. This marks a substantial increase from his previous NHL performances, where he scored 7 goals and 14 points in 62 games during his rookie year (2021-22) and 4 goals and 13 points in 30 games during an injury-shortened 2022-23 season.

His shooting percentage also saw a notable increase, rising to 14.5% in 2023-24, up 5% from the previous year. This improved efficiency contributed to his increased goal total. Despite the success, he still dealt with injuries, missing the first few weeks of the 2023-24 season.

What It Means in Context

Chinakhov's 2023-24 season finally delivered on the potential scouts saw when he was drafted 21st overall in 2020. His 16 goals and 29 points in just 53 games extrapolate to approximately 24 goals and 44 points over a full 82-game season, which would be a significant fantasy contribution, especially for a player previously undervalued due to inconsistent play and injuries. His average ice time of 15:10 per game is also a career high, indicating increased trust from the coaching staff compared to his 12:30 average under ex-coach John Tortorella. This increased usage suggests a more prominent role moving forward.

His KHL season in 2020-21, where he scored 10 goals and 17 points and was elevated to the top line for Avangard Omsk, hinted at this offensive capability. The 2023-24 season demonstrates he can translate that skill to the NHL level when healthy. His waiver-exempt status in previous seasons allowed the Blue Jackets to manage his development between the NHL and AHL, as evidenced by his effective stints with the Cleveland Monsters (e.g., 8 points in 7 games after returning from injury in 2022-23). The one-year, $800k AAV contract extension signed in April 2023 was a low-risk move that paid off for the team given his subsequent performance.

What You Should Do About It This Week

For dynasty and keeper league managers, Chinakhov's 2023-24 breakout makes him a significant target. His previous injury history is a concern, but his offensive upside was clearly displayed. In redraft leagues, he moves from a late-round flyer to a mid-to-late round consideration with significant upside if he can stay healthy and maintain his ice time and shooting percentage. Given that there are 59 days until opening night Source, this is prime time to evaluate potential draft targets.

Monitor training camp reports for his health status and projected line placement. If he secures a top-six role and power-play time, his value will continue to climb. His shooting percentage of 14.5% is elevated but not unsustainably high for a skilled scorer, suggesting potential for replication.

Risks / What to Watch Next

The primary concern for Chinakhov remains his injury history. He has missed significant time in previous seasons. Owners should track his health status carefully leading up to and during the season. His role in the Blue Jackets' potentially crowded forward group will also be critical to watch, particularly whether he maintains a top-six spot and consistent power-play opportunities. The upcoming season will be crucial in determining if his 2023-24 performance was a true breakout or an outlier season for a player with injury woes.